The MARINA project: Comparing DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN

The MARINA project compared the performance of DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN systems. Magister joined forces with Thales Alenia Space France in this project, with our team focusing on system-level simulations and TASF focusing on link level simulations.

The comparison of DVB-S2X/RCS2 and 5G-NR (Non-Terrestrial Networks) technologies is a highly relevant topic in broadband satellite communication. Many stakeholders are currently contemplating which solution to invest in, given the performance, advantages, and limitations of the technologies.

The MARINA project addressed this topical subject. The project started in June 2023, and was completed in May 2024. The final presentation of the MARINA project will be given in October 2024.

We joined forces with Thales Alenia Space France in this project. In the project, Magister focused on system-level simulations, while Thales Alenia Space France concentrated on link level simulations.

MARINA was an ESA-funded project. It monitored and contributed to the ETSI SES-SCN work item “Comparison of DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 3GPP 5G-NR NTN-based systems for broadband satellite communication systems”. The work item is led by the TC-SES/SCN working group. 

The project provided us with an excellent opportunity to showcase our world-class simulation expertise. We also got to be part of promoting worldwide standards for satellite networks.

> Read also: Wrapping up the MARINA project: Fair method for comparing DVB-S2X and 5G NR

Comparing the performance of DVB-S2X/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN

DVB-S2X/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN protocols have distinct origins. They were developed to meet different market needs and user requirements.

DVB-S2X/RCS2 has been optimized for broadband satellite transmissions. It considers typical SatCom transponder characteristics such as S/N ratio, propagation delay, gain flatness, phase noise, and amplitude linearity.

5G-NR NTN is strongly influenced by the performance of handheld user devices operating at lower frequency bands in terrestrial cellular network topology, with its associated performance characteristics.

The ETSI SES-SCN aims to perform a qualitative and quantitative comparison of both access technologies. 

In this project, we compared the technologies through simulative studies at the link and system levels. There was also a goal to identify potential enhancements for 5G-NR and contribute potential findings to the 3GPP standardization process.

The goals of the MARINA project

Several technical objectives were identified at the start of the MARINA project. These included:

1. Comparing the performance of DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN protocols in higher frequency bands typically used in SatCom applications for broadband satellite services.
2. Monitoring and contributing to the ETSI SES-SCN group’s work in comparing DVB-S2x/RCS2 and 5G-NR NTN systems.
3. Identifying potential improvements for 5G-NR NTN in GEO HTS scenarios, generating inputs for consideration under 3GPP Release 18 and beyond.
4. Investigating techniques to reduce the Peak-to-Average Power Ratio (PAPR) when operating on multiple 5G-NR or DVB-S2x carriers.
5. Proposing a list of recommended follow-up activities to overcome the identified performance issues, especially those related to 5G NR/NTN.

The project results will be available to anyone participating in ETSI standardization. It’s useful to understand the differences between 5G-NR NTN and DVB technologies. For example, it’s crucial to understand their characteristics and operational constraints regarding future broadband satellite networks. 

Magister Solutions is a Finnish company that has a unique collection of world class expertise and expertise in mobile and satellite technologies. With our strong scientific background, we offer a range of services, including visualization software, Space Situational Awareness solutions, simulation-assisted R&D, communication network simulation, as well as satellite and UAV constellation and communication design.

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